Connecticut Governor Rell: Flags to Half Staff on Tuesday, June 17

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June 16, 2008 -- Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell has ordered State of Connecticut and U.S. flags lowered to half staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, June 17 in honor of Sgt. 1st Class John T. Gallagher of Hamden, who was killed during the Vietnam War.

Gallagher’s Special Forces helicopter was shot down over Laos on January 5, 1968. He and the other four crewmen were listed as missing in action until 2006, when the flight’s wreckage was found. Gallagher was 24 years old at the time of the crash.

“I am asking that Connecticut residents lower their flags on Tuesday to honor Sgt. Gallagher’s bravery and distinguished service to the United States,” Governor Rell said. “After more than 40 years, Sgt. Gallagher’s friends and family will finally have some closure, and we want them all to know that we are thinking of them at this difficult time.”

A military burial will take place Tuesday at 1:45 PM at the Centerville Cemetery on Washington Avenue in Hamden. Federal and state officials will attend the ceremony.

Source: Connecticut Governor